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Skiing

The world class Aspen Snowmass resort has long been a mecca for ski and snowboarding enthusiasts of all ages

3,342 Acres of Terrain in the powdery heart of the Colorado Rockies

Cruisers, glades, steeps, terrain parks, and half pipes provide a wintertime playground unlike any other.

Snowmass is a mountain of convenience above all. Ninety-five percent of the lodging is ski in/ski out with a quick and convenient airport only 6 miles away. Colorado’s famous feather-light snow graces 4,406 vertical feet in elevation, 3,342 acres of terrain and 98 trails, making it the third largest ski area in Colorado (larger then the other three mountains of Aspen Snowmass combined). While there might be plenty of like-minded people out enjoying the slopes, you'll never feel crowded with an average of two people per acre. There's lots of room to roam, and the longest trail is 5.3 miles long!

With a difficulty split of 5% easiest, 48% more difficult, 17% most difficult, and 30% expert, alpine skiing at Aspen Snowmass caters to all levels of ability and the entire family. Amenities such as a top-rated ski school and children's center, terrain parks and pipe, and plenty of free activities for the whole family only seal the deal.

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Skiing FAQs

Is Snowmass good for beginner skiers?

Yes. About 5% of the mountain's terrain is classified as easiest (or “green”), while 48% is more difficult (“blue”), leaving considerable room for progression. Snowmass offers instruction for different ages and abilities, including first-timers. Families can also find green-level children's tree trails, giving newer young skiers a playful introduction to the mountain.

Is there enough terrain for advanced and expert skiers?

Plenty: 17% of the terrain is classified most difficult and another 30% expert. The mountain mixes steep terrain and glades with groomers, terrain parks and a halfpipe, rather than providing just one type of advanced skiing. With 3,342 acres and an average of only about two skiers per acre, there's a lot of room to explore.

Where should expert skiers go?

Powderhorn is a double-black route descending from the top of Sam's Knob toward Campground and is particularly appealing if you enjoy moguls. Garret's Gulch and Powerline Glades provide steep, less obvious terrain away from some of the more traveled blue runs. Expert terrain makes up about 30% of the mountain, so strong skiers have plenty to choose from.

Does one lift ticket cover multiple mountains?

Yes. A standard lift ticket purchased from Aspen Snowmass provides access to Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Highlands, and Buttermilk.

When does the ski season run?

Exact dates vary by season and snow conditions. Generally, the ski season runs from late November to mid-April.

Does Snowmass have long lift lines?

Lift lines can happen at peak times, but Snowmass generally has plenty of room to spread out. With 3,342 acres of terrain and an average of roughly two skiers per acre, the mountain is designed for some serious roaming rather than standing around in ski boots. No promises of zero lines—especially over holidays—but long queues aren't necessarily the norm throughout the mountain.

How big is the ski area?

Snowmass has 3,342 skiable acres, 98 trails and 4,406 vertical feet. Its longest trail stretches approximately 5.3 miles. The combination of large acreage and relatively low skier density is one of the mountain's distinguishing characteristics.

Are there any day cares for kids while adults ski?

Yes. Families skiing in Snowmass have a convenient resort childcare option, as well as ski-school programs for children old enough to get on the snow. Treehouse Kids' Adventure Center is a 25,000-square-foot facility that combines childcare, children's programming, and access to ski-school services, making it particularly convenient when parents want to ski. Childcare and play programming accommodates children as young as eight weeks. Six interactive, nature-themed rooms give younger children things to explore while their family is on the mountain. Children from about age 2 1⁄2 can transition into ski lessons that emphasize learning through games rather than pressure. For children who are ready to ski rather than stay in childcare, kid-friendly instruction is available for first-timers and developing skiers. Programs help children become comfortable with skiing while parents can spend their own time on the slopes. Families can choose lessons according to age and ability rather than putting everyone into the same level.

family in ski gear overlooking view of Maroon Bells at top of Elk Camp Chairlift
friends on a powder day with snow in their beards
skier jumping off rocks on expert terrain in Snowmass
adaptive skiers in sit ski on Snowmass
skier carving down freshly groomed terrain on Snowmass
skier making turns in deep powder